EssaysWhat is the Middle East?The Middle East is the common term for a region consisting of countries in Southwest Asia and, usually, at least part of North Africa. It is a relatively new term now widespread both inside and outside the region. While this essay mainly focuses on geography, it also discusses some stereotypes and realities. Middle Eastern DesertsThink of the Middle East and the desert is likely one of the first images to spring to mind. While there is much more geographic diversity in the region than most people realize, the desert s of the Middle East truly are some of the largest and most awe-inspiring in the world. The Sahara is the largest desert in the world, the Rub al-Khali in Saudi Arabia has awesome dunes of sand, and Iran’s arid central plateau contains the Dasht-e Lut and Dasht-e Kavir. Physical Geography of the Middle EastWhy should we think so hard about geography? Why does geography matter? In addition to the intrinsic interest of the physical structures of the earth, geography is the canvas on which history—the lives of people over years, centuries, millennia—is painted. Water in the Middle EastWater security has always been an issue in the arid environment that characterizes most of the Middle East. Not until recently, however, has it been so serious. Although the Nile, Euphrates, Tigris and Jordan Rivers provide substantial agricultural, industrial and commercial support, the longevity of this scarce resource is being tested daily. Water, Geography, and Peace in the Middle EastAn Excerpt from Water In the Middle East: A Geography of Peace by Hussein A. Amery and Aaron T. Wolf ActivitiesComparing Maps of the Middle EastTime: 1 class period Level: Grades 6-12 Materials: internet connection and projector or prepared powerpoint with maps of the Middle East such as those below Outcomes: Students will be able to discuss the characteristics of a geographical region, and to list characteristics of the Middle East that define it as a region. Students will be able ...Measuring the Modern: Demography and Human Development in the Middle EastIn this activity, we will use the first Arab Human Development Report to examine not only the levels and measures of development in the Arab countries of the Middle East, but also to examine the act of measuring itself.ResourcesGeography ResourcesHere is a list of useful websites, books and movies on the geography of the Middle East. |
Home 
Geography
Geography
Teacher Institutes
MEPC provides free, highly acclaimed, non-partisan workshops on the Middle East and Islam across the U.S. Our education director will come to your school, organization or conference with innovative strategies for teaching these complex topics. We tailor workshops to your specific needs
Arab Culture & Civilization
Explore this exemplary library of articles and resources on Arab societies and culture. This site was originally created by the National Institute for Technology in Liberal Education (NITLE).
